Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 Fuel Economy: Which Compact SUV Reigns Supreme?

The compact SUV segment is a battleground, with titans like the Nissan Rogue and Toyota RAV4 constantly vying for supremacy. For many consumers, a key deciding factor is Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 fuel economy. Not only does fuel efficiency impact running costs, but it also reflects the overall engineering and design of the vehicle. This blog delves deep into the fuel economy and reliability of these two popular models, helping you make an informed decision.

Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 Fuel Economy: A Comparison Table

Feature	Nissan Rogue	Toyota RAV4
Engine	1.5L Turbocharged 3-cylinder	2.5L 4-cylinder
Horsepower	201 hp	203 hp
Torque	225 lb-ft	184 lb-ft
Transmission	CVT	8-speed Automatic
EPA City MPG	30 mpg	27 mpg
EPA Highway MPG	37 mpg	35 mpg
EPA Combined MPG	33 mpg	30 mpg
Hybrid Option	No	Yes
Reliability (J.D. Power)	Average	Above Average
Cargo Space	74.1 cu ft	69.8 cu ft

Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 Fuel Economy: A Detailed Comparison

1. Engine and Performance

The Nissan Rogue underwent a significant powertrain change, now featuring a 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine. This engine, while smaller, delivers an impressive 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a peppy driving experience, especially in urban settings. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is designed to maximize efficiency, contributing to the Rogue’s strong Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 fuel economy figures.

On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 utilizes a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the horsepower is slightly higher, the torque is lower compared to the Rogue. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and predictable shifts. However, regarding pure acceleration feel, the Rogue’s turbo engine provides a different experience.

2. Fuel Economy

Here’s where the Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 fuel economy discussion gets interesting. The Rogue boasts EPA ratings of 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. These figures are notably higher than the RAV4’s 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. The Rogue’s smaller turbocharged engine and CVT contribute significantly to its superior fuel efficiency.

The RAV4, while not as efficient as the Rogue, still offers respectable fuel economy for its class. It’s worth noting that the RAV4 also offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, which significantly improve fuel efficiency. These options are crucial for consumers prioritizing fuel savings. However, the base models of both are what we are comparing for standard Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 fuel economy.

3. Reliability

Reliability is a crucial factor for any car buyer. J.D. Power ratings suggest that the Toyota RAV4 generally scores above average in reliability, while the Nissan Rogue is rated as average. This difference can be attributed to Toyota’s long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles. However, the Nissan Rogue’s new engine design is still relatively new, and long-term reliability data is still being gathered. The RAV4’s proven track record gives it an edge in this category.

4. Cargo Space and Practicality

Both the Rogue and RAV4 offer ample cargo space for their class. The Rogue provides 74.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, slightly more than the RAV4’s 69.8 cubic feet. This difference, while not massive, can be significant for those who frequently transport large items. Both vehicles offer comfortable seating for five passengers and a range of convenience features. Choosing between them depends on your specific needs and preferences.

5. Finding the Right Vehicle

To explore available options and compare prices, consider checking out listings on platforms like CarGurus. Here are some links to help you in your search:

Nissan Rogue on CarGurus

Toyota RAV4 on CarGurus

These links will provide you with up-to-date information on available models and pricing, helping you make an informed decision.

6. Considering Hybrid Options

If Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 fuel economy is your primary concern, and you want to maximise your MPG, then the Toyota RAV4 hybrid or plug-in hybrid options should be considered. While the standard gasoline models are being compared here, the hybrid options of the RAV4 offer a huge advantage in fuel economy.

Conclusion

When comparing Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 fuel economy, the Nissan Rogue emerges as the clear winner in terms of fuel efficiency. Its turbocharged 3-cylinder engine and CVT deliver impressive mileage figures. However, the Toyota RAV4 holds an edge in reliability and offers hybrid options for those seeking even better fuel economy.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. If fuel economy is your top concern, the Nissan Rogue is a compelling option. If reliability and hybrid availability are more important, the Toyota RAV4 might be a better fit. Always test drive both vehicles and compare features before making your final decision. The Nissan Rogue vs Toyota RAV4 fuel economy is only one component of a much larger decision.